Ethiopia

Ethiopia hosts 2nd annual forum on Red Sea regional cooperation amid tensions

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed as pictured during the Italy-Afria Summit that took place on January 28-29, 2024. (Photo: X/ Abiy Ahmed)

By Foreign Reporter | Saturday, June 1, 2024

Discussions centred on four key areas: evolving security dynamics, port access and sharing, regional security framework gaps, and successful maritime cooperation models.

The Ethiopian Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) hosted the 2nd Red Sea Dialogue in Addis Ababa, emphasising regional cooperation amid geopolitical shifts.

At the 30 May event, themed "The Need for Regional Cooperation at a Time of Geopolitical Shifts," IFA Executive Director Jafar Bedru highlighted the economic potential of the Red Sea region and its significance in global shipping routes.

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Discussions centred on four key areas: evolving security dynamics, port access and sharing, regional security framework gaps, and successful maritime cooperation models.

Ambassador Eshete Tilahun from Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted the importance of cooperation for Red Sea peace and security, highlighting Ethiopia's strategic role and historical ties to the region.

Last year's conference, themed "Red Sea Security Dynamics: The Need for Dialogue and Cooperation at a Time of Geopolitical Entanglements," focused on regional cooperation for mutual benefit in global trade.

In Ethiopia, discussions on sea access and Red Sea security gained traction after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed remarked on their significance.

Academics convened at Semera University to discuss the country's need for fair access to seaports, highlighting the role of higher education institutions in diplomatic efforts.